Bluffton plays host to Estill tonight looking for the first 4-0 start in school history.

The Bobcats had the ball and a clock that was barreling toward zero. Newfound electricity filled the air.

When the final horn trumpeted the Bluffton High School football team had more points on the scoreboard and more fans in the stands.

Which game, you ask? Doesn't really matter, pick one.

The islanders of Hilton Head? They went home early. What about the faithful of Hardeeville? They, too, saw the inside of their cars before the clock struck zero.

Tonight, the Bobcats are trying to triple that atmosphere.

It's been three long weeks - and three wins - on the road to start the season, but the Bobcats finally return home tonight for the 2010 home opener against Estill High School.

"Undefeated is the best feeling ever coming into a home game," said safety Travis Ramsey, the Bobcat with arguably the best beard on the team.

"Everybody's going to be excited, especially coming out of that tunnel. We're going to put on a show."

The "tunnel" is a hand-made entrance the Bobcats will take the field through tonight as part of the changing traditions instituted by first-year head coach Ken Cribb.

"I've been real impressed with the following we've had on the road," said Bobcat head coach Ken Cribb. "But I challenge all of Bluffton to come out. Let these kids hear you."

Those that find their way to Bluffton Stadium, 12 H.E. McCracken Circle, for tonight's 7:30 kickoff might just catch a glimpse of history.

Bluffton has never started a season 4-0. The program started 3-0 in 2006 and was bounced from the state playoffs in the first round.

The Bobcats are one of just six schools sitting at 3-0 in the Class 3A. The 109 points scored (about 36 per contest) is second to only Chester High School's 136 in the conference.

The offense has dominated, despite a different running back leading the team in yardage in each game. That unit, which is averaging 367 yards a game, isn't without its share of injuries.

Desmond Jenkins, who missed the last two games, is questionable with an ankle injury. Also banged up is Zach "Tex" Scott, the Bobcats' rushing leader, who will play despite a nagging turf toe injury.

The Bluffton defense is the main reason why the team in undefeated, holding two (Hilton Head and Hardeeville) of its three opponents to less than 80 total yards.

Estill travels to Bluffton will a similar team as fellow Class 1A programs Hardeeville and Ridgeland. The Fighting Gators (1-1) are quick, yet physical.

It doesn't matter who is coming into town, confidence is rising quickly in Bluffton.

"They really are transforming, I can see it by the look in their faces and how they carry themselves," Cribb said. "Confidence is building and expectations are rising.

Cribb strongly encourages fans to come out to the stadium tonight. The Bobcats hit the road again next week, traveling to Wade Hampton before their bye week. Bluffton's next home game isn't until they kick off the Region 5-3A schedule Oct. 1 versus Lake Marion High School.

AND THE WINNER IS...

Zach "Tex" Scott

Zach Scott rushed for 195 yards against Hardeeville, becoming the third Bobcat running back to lead the team in rushing in as many weeks.

As if that wasn't enough to get him some votes, the junior added a touchdown for good measure.

His efforts earn him the second BT Game Ball of his career, having claimed the honor last season.

Quarterback C.J. Frazier worked out separately on the stadium grass on Wednesday while recouping from a broken collarbone. The sophomore is still at least a month away from returning. Corey Stoner has filled in admirably in Frazier's absence. Stay tuned to see what Frazier's return will do to the already deep Bobcat offense.

Tonight's game is the first of only four home contests. All told, the Bobcats will travel 470 miles to road games this regular season.

In an increasingly maddening situation, word is the new uniforms are still on the production line in the Caribbean.

Want a chance to meet the Bobcat football team and congratulate them on another hard-fought battle? The Bobcats are looking for sponsors to help support the team each Thursday by providing meals for the team at its weekly "Victory Dinner."

Those helping out so far this season with hearty meals include the Bluffton High School All Sports Booster Club, Moe's Southwest Grill and Mayor Lisa Sulka.

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